New Zealand's Aroha Island has once again been opened to the tourist public, following a regeneration battle.
The Island, which boasts a Kiwi sanctuary and a beach located within easy reach of Kerikeri, had a five-year lease and right of renewal negotiated by a group of volunteers when earlier this year owners suggested handing it over to a commercial lender.
Former owner, Colin Little, was a guest of honor at the opening on December 16th.
He told the Northern Advocate: "Bring your picnic baskets along and relax by the beach with your families.
"But remember, Aroha Island is a sanctuary for brown kiwi so leave your pets at home."
The island, which is connected to the mainland by a causeway, is home to a stable community of New Zealand brown Kiwi, including two breeding pairs.
Aroha's former manager's residence has been converted into a lodge and the cottage into a backpacker's bunk room in preparation for visitors.
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